We were lucky to catch up with Rhonda Greene recently and have shared our conversation below.

Rhonda, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What do you think matters most in terms of achieving success?

Great question!

Believe in yourself and your goals. In my field of work there’s not a blueprint to follow; I’ve searched. This year I made the choice to fully commit to being a photographer and that meant stepping away from what is familiar and that’s both scary and exciting. Working a nine to five, being micro-managed, creating content on my lunch breaks and scheduling shoots on the weekends became all too consuming. Mental stress is no longer an option, now I set my own schedule.

There are so many talented people in photography. Comparing yourself to others can cause roadblocks; we’re individuals, and cannot be on the same journey. I think my work is amazing; however, my enthusiasm isn’t always met with support. People have a remark on everything no matter how good it is, but you have to keep going. I’ve sought constructive feedback from other photographers or art communities to gain a different perspective of my work. Additionally, I showcase my photography through social media and I’m creating a portfolio to reach a wider audience. It’s important to remember that artistic appreciation can be subjective, and it’s important to stay true to your passion and develop your craft.

I’m creating my “tribe”, a supportive network of individuals providing me with opportunities to pry open doors I wouldn’t know to access. When you are sure and confident of yourself, that’s it, game over. Success.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m a self-taught photographer born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana. Photography has always been a part of my life, my grandfather was a photojournalist for an African-American publication. It’s through my observation of my grandfather and how he worked that encouraged me to tap into my creativity.

I enjoy shooting black and white portraits and street photography. The adrenaline rush of shooting strangers and the calmness studio portraits offer. In my opinion, both areas require a certain amount of discipline and creativity. I’m a bit daring in my studio sessions, so it’s important to hear the story of my clients and gain their trust before shooting. When a client isn’t afraid to be vulnerable, the picture becomes a work of art.

I started Blended Images Photography, LLC, after the birth of my daughter. Capturing her every moment became my obsession, but it also developed me as a photographer. I currently work alone, but I’ve met some people I would love to collaborate with in the immediate future.

I’m most proud of the risk I’ve taken to create my brand. I don’t place myself in a box and I don’t worry about what others are creating. I believe there’s space for everyone to build. I remember when I first started sharing my work on social media, people I’ve known for years had no idea I was serious about photography. I produced image after image because I have so many photos and I just wanted people to enjoy my work. Then a demand to print, exhibit or publish my work arose, and I had to reset. This reset allows me to be present in my life. I see the growth in my work and clientele. I have some huge goals for 2024, and I’m really excited to see where my persistence takes me.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

I’m working on building a legacy of inspiration, hope, love, encouragement, and achievement for my family.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Oh definitely! First of all, networking earlier on and connecting with other artists is critical. My networks have opened the doors to other artistic communities local and elsewhere. Getting listed on artist directories is also excellent for building brands. Social media wasn’t the force it is now, but I’ve learned to use it to boost my posts for further exposure. Being selected into organizations like Black Women Photographers that offers virtual networking opportunities and lectures on the different aspects of photography from world renowned photographers was definitely a game changer. However, my determination and a supportive network of individuals is providing me with opportunities to pry open doors I wouldn’t know to access.

Contact Info:

• Website: blendedimagesphoto.com
• Instagram: blended_images
• Facebook: Rhonda Greene

Image Credits
Rhonda Greene – photographer/metadata holder